ATENG

The play runs for roughly an hour, and Thou Reyes didn’t waste any second in showcasing his skills.

Naglalakad pa lang siya papasok ng entablado, nakuha na niya agad ang atensyon ng mga tao. Sa pagtapak pa lang ng kanyang mga paa, may presensya na kaagad siyang naibibigay.

Kahit hindi pa siya nagsasalita, andami ng sinasabi ng kanyang mukha. Mula ngiwi hanggang ngiti, nakikita mo ang mga pagbabago. Magkamali man siya sa mga linya, hindi mo yun iindahin. Mas mapapasin mo kung gaano siya kagaling. Kaya niyang buhatin at buhayin ang mga eksena.

Madalas natin siyang mapanuod sa telebisyon kung saan naipapakita na niya ang kanyang husay. Ngunit kapag matunghayan mo siyang umaarte mismo sa harapan mo, ibang klaseng karanasan ang dulot nito.

Thou Reyes is born to do theater. He is meant to be experienced live. His performance isn’t limited on the stage alone, he fills the entire venue with his commanding presence—leaving no space for reservations and mediocrity. Thou shalt murder, because he’s killing it.

Because of IO Balanan’s sweet and innocent portrayal, it’s easier to understand his character’s actions despite how reckless and dumb they can get.

For his theatrical debut, Kokoy De Santos’ charm and appeal initially serve him well. But as the play progresses, his appearance starts to overshadow his emotions and struggles, making it tough to connect with him.

The conversations flow naturally, giving time to build what kind of relationship the siblings have. The references to Madonna and Tina Turner are clever and timeless, elevating them from being a mere background music to insightful character background.

When you hear a sound effect like a raindrop or a song playing, it's immersive and believable that you start to wonder if it's coming from the audience, the play, or from outside.

The lighting could've been utilized further to amplify the heat and tension among the characters, especially during the crucial interrogation. In a scene where they mention something is wet, the effect is barely noticeable. Enhancing it would’ve improved the scene.

The door curtains pose a physical challenge for the actors, who often get tangled while entering and exiting. The obstacle in the set becomes an irritating distraction from the main performance.

Given all the hardships the characters have faced, the story didn't culminate in a powerful way. The ending falls short in sharing a compelling message.

Their approach to justice provides temporary satisfaction. However, it's not sustainable. The script provides a weak resolution to the story, resulting in weak character arc and development. 

Despite some flaws, Thou Reyes deserves the spotlight. Situations may vary from rainbow colors to gloomy weather, but the love of an Ateng remains strong.

The show has a funny tone and a gripping storyline, leaving you wanting more as the curtain falls.

🌈 💅🏻 💦

Mapapanuod ang theater play na “ATENG” mula November 14 hanggang December 7, 2025 sa Rampa Drag Club. Tickets available at Ticket2Me.net and at the Rampa Drag Club.